There were some big changes to the technology
in 2015, and these are going to make their impact on the year ahead for many
businesses. Take a look at the top three tech trends to watch out for…
1. Next Generation of “Mobile” Worker
The demand for a mobile workforce in 2015
came about because of the similar customer demand for an online presence that
was seamless across multiple channels, but 2016 looks at creating a new kind of
worker: one that can access their “desk” from anywhere and
any device. The mobile worker is able to have more flexible hours to fit their
job around family commitments, increasing worker satisfaction. Now, however,
workers need to be able to work from home with access to the exact same tools
and materials that they would have if sat at their desk in an office.
With this has come the invention of software
like VMware
Workspace Suite, a virtual workspace which allows the company to create the
perfect online environment tailored to that employee. It can be replicated
across multiple devices whilst keeping the same end-user appearance. With this
priority growing in the minds of employees every day, this should really take
off in 2016.
2. Increase in Use of VoIP Software
This has seen a huge leap in popularity
recently and only plans to get bigger. There are a lot of business benefits to
be had from using VoIP rather than PSTN, including:
•
better productivity, as your staff are able to listen back to
calls and report on calls when it is converted to data, so you can create
better predictions for certain areas of your business
•
it is a far more flexible solution to PSTN, as it can be scaled
up very quickly
•
certain VoIP
software packages can include multiple geographical numbers, meaning that your
callers always receive a local area code, giving you more credibility and trust
3. Virtual Boardrooms
The top two trends may be great for big
businesses, but what about SMEs? Well, whereas “virtual” in terms of offices
used to mean a mailbox, telephone answering system or Skype used in a meeting,
this is all changing. We’re well aware of the advances that tech has
made in enhancing boardroom meetings for people from multiple locations, but
this has been stepped up in 2016 with the robot that’s giving a virtual
presence to telecommuters and remote workers for meetings they cannot attend.
We can’t wait to see how this one develops.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the author's own, and do not necessarily reflect those of EconMatters.
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